Guest spotting can be rewarding but also intimidating if you're unprepared. I'm pulling back the curtain on both sides of the experience - what you need to know as a traveling artist and what shop owners should consider when hosting guests. From essential pre-trip questions to bringing your portfolio (seriously, why don't artists do this?), I share the communication strategies that make or break these opportunities. After hosting countless artists at Bluebird Tattoo and guest spotting around the country myself, I've seen it all - the good, the awkward, and the unprofessional. This episode gives you the honest advice you need to build meaningful connections that can transform your career in the tattoo industry.

 

Episode #1 The Perfect Client DOES Exist

Guest Spot Sign-up Form

 

What you will learn in this episode:

• Key questions to ask before accepting a guest spot (shop supplies, location details, shop reputation, and client preferences)

• How to effectively promote yourself in a new city through targeted ads, local social media groups, and hashtags

• Essential items to bring with you, including your portfolio, business cards, and merch to maximize opportunities

• Professional etiquette tips for creating great first impressions and building relationships with shop owners

• Communication strategies before, during, and after your guest spot to ensure success and future invitations

• Best practices for shop owners hosting guest artists, from proper preparation to creating a welcoming environment

• How to turn a work trip into a valuable learning experience by engaging with resident artists

 

Links:

boundbyart.com

bluebirdtattoos.com

instagram.com/tattoosbymissiblue

instagram.com/boundbyartproject

instagram.com/bluebirdtattoostudio

 

Music: Unknown Road - The Harp Project